I am considering buying a bike of some sort but am not exactly sure what to look for. I want something that would be road friendly as this would probably be where I spend most of the time but I would also like it to do well on trails.

I would be looking at spending somewhere around $250. I know that isn't really a whole lot of money in the bike world and would probably be looking at something used. So in that case are there certain things to look for when buying a used bike other then standard functionality?

The wife and I bought our bikes at Dick's off the top of my head couldn't tell you what brand they are but most places will let you ride the bikes before you buy you just have to go in and ask questions.